Best Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems
Organizations in many sectors rely on management information systems professionals to manage and secure their data.
Management information systems (MIS) jobs offer above-average salaries and strong job growth, making the field appealing to professionals interested in technology and business.
MIS directors combine information technology (IT) and business training to manage IT departments and improve an organization’s information systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information systems managers — including MIS directors — earn a median annual wage of $164,070 with much faster than average projected job growth. A bachelor’s degree in management information systems meets the educational requirements for entry-level MIS director jobs.
Featured Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Degree Programs
Our rankings list the top online bachelor’s in management information systems programs to help prospective students make an informed decision when researching programs. This page also includes information about how to choose the best online MIS degree and covers typical salaries and positions in the field.
Bachelors in Management Information Systems
2023
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following schools based on the quality of their programs and the range of courses provided. We also considered school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems
Selecting the right online management information systems degree can shape a professional’s career. Prospective MIS majors should consider several factors when choosing a program. In addition to the cost of a degree, it’s best to research things like transfer policies, program length, and graduation requirements to find the best fit for your professional goals.
Program Cost
The cost of online MIS degrees varies depending on the program. In general, public, in-state universities charge the lowest tuition, although many out-of-state schools have tuition discounts for online students.
Transfer Policies
A generous transfer policy can save students with prior college credit time and money on their degrees. Many programs offer transfer credit evaluations before applying.
School Size and Type
Some students prefer smaller programs with more individualized attention, while others prefer a large cohort and alumni network.
Program Length
The number of required credits, internships, and practices can affect a program’s length. Some schools also offer accelerated programs, which allow students to graduate sooner.
On-Campus Requirements
Some online programs have on-campus requirements, like an initial orientation or a final capstone course. Students considering out-of-state schools may prefer a program without any on-campus requirements.
Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements
A senior thesis or capstone project can add time to an MIS degree. Most programs do not include work or internship requirements.
What Is Management Information Systems?
The interdisciplinary field of management information systems bridges business and technology by applying computer technology and management skills to the challenge of managing information for organizations. Management information systems analyzes the relationship between organizations and information, helping businesses effectively and efficiently use data.
Businesses rely on information systems to conduct daily operations and make long-term plans. Information systems help businesses collect and analyze data about customer demand, market products and services, and pay their bills. MIS professionals design and maintain information systems to help businesses store data. They make sure authorized users can access information when needed and protect data from cyberattacks.
Within management information systems, professionals can specialize in different areas. Some work in business intelligence, drawing on data analytics to collect and analyze business data. Others focus on data management, creating the databases organizations use to manage their information. MIS professionals may also work in cybersecurity, preventing data breaches and implementing security plans.
MIS professionals work in many industries, including business, healthcare, and the public sector. Each position requires strong information systems training and a background in business and management techniques, which can be gained through a bachelor’s in management information systems degree.
What Is a Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Degree?
A bachelor’s in management information systems degree blends information technology and business, providing foundational skills for in-demand IT jobs. The degree trains undergraduates to analyze the information needs of businesses, create systems to manage data, and improve organizational efficiency.
Common courses during a management information systems degree include database management systems, operations management, information systems analysis, and systems security management. Many programs let students customize curricula by offering electives or concentrations in areas like cybersecurity, data analytics, or project management. These courses help undergraduates prepare for specialized career paths after graduation.
Online MIS degrees offer several advantages over on-campus programs. For example, many online programs let students access course materials on their schedules, which appeals to working professionals and busy students. Typical admission requirements for an online MIS degree include a high school diploma or a GED and standardized test scores.
Earning a management information systems degree generally takes four years for full-time students. During that time, undergraduates complete approximately 120 credits of coursework, including courses within the major, general education requirements, and electives. Students with prior college credits or learners who choose an accelerated program can earn the degree in less time.
Featured Online Schools
What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Degree?
During an online MIS degree, undergraduates learn how to manage information systems, organize information in databases, and secure sensitive data. The knowledge and skills gained during a management information systems degree prepare majors for in-demand careers after graduation.
Career possibilities with an information technology degree include information security manager, computer systems analyst, systems administrator, business systems analyst, and database administrator. A bachelor’s in management information systems provides a foundation for many entry-level IT jobs. With work experience, the degree also meets the requirements for jobs like computer and information systems managers.
After earning a bachelor’s in management information systems, graduates can enter the workforce or pursue a graduate degree. A master’s in management information systems or an MBA in management information systems positions professionals for career advancement and greater responsibilities.
Learn more about online master’s and online MBA in management information systems programs.
Management Information Systems Jobs
A bachelor’s in management information systems degree prepares graduates for high-paying, in-demand jobs like information security analyst and database administrator. Computer and information systems managers, particularly management information systems directors, often hold at least a bachelor’s degree in MIS.
This section introduces careers for MIS graduates and includes job outlook and salary information.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts evaluate an organization’s computer networks and systems to implement security measures. They monitor those networks for security breaches, investigate cyberattacks, and install software that protects information. Information security analysts also conduct testing to identify system vulnerabilities and develop security standards for their organizations.
After conducting research and tests, information security analysts recommend security enhancements and create disaster recovery plans for their organizations. Information security analysts typically hold a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, and many employers prefer candidates who hold an information security certification.
Database Administrator
Database administrators store and organize data using specialized software. They protect data from unauthorized access, back up data to prevent loss, and make sure authorized users can access data. Administrators design databases around the needs of their clients, making sure they operate smoothly and efficiently. As part of their responsibilities, administrators also upgrade databases and merge old databases into new ones.
Security plays a central role in database administration. Many administrators hold a bachelor’s degree in an information-related subject, and some employers prefer to hire administrators who hold a professional certification.
Computer Network Architects
Computer network architects design communication networks for organizations. They determine an organization’s networking needs and design a network that achieves the organization’s goals. Computer network architects must design layouts for data communication networks, work with management to implement upgrades, and design secured networks. They also research new technologies to improve current networks.
Also known as network engineers, computer network architects coordinate with other IT professionals to meet an organization’s networking needs. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field and previous work experience. Some employers prefer candidates who hold professional certification.
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and information systems managers, also known as IT managers, oversee computer-related activities for organizations. They determine the organization’s information technology needs and implement systems to meet those needs. Computer and information systems managers ensure the security of the organization’s data, implement upgrades to the network or computer systems, and manage IT professionals.
Within an organization, computer and information systems managers may specialize in IT security, IT strategy, or management information systems. MIS directors, for example, supervise an organization’s IT departments. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in either computer science or information science, plus previous work experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Management Information Systems?
Management information systems organizes the data needs of businesses to help them run smoothly. Businesses rely on management information systems professionals to help them operate in the modern economy.
What Is a Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Degree?
A bachelor’s degree in management information systems provides foundational training in both IT and business, preparing graduates for a variety of relevant jobs.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Management Information Systems Degree?
Job titles for MIS graduates include database administrator, business systems analyst, systems administrator, computer systems analyst, and information security manager.
What Does an MIS Major Do?
MIS majors take courses in operations management, information systems analysis, database management systems, and systems security management to build the skills and knowledge needed for careers in IT administration.
How Much Do Management Information Systems Majors Make?
According to PayScale, the median salary for professionals with an MIS bachelor’s degree is about $88,000 per year.